Psychology

Aims

The aims of the Psychology Special Interest Group are to:

Provide international research collaboration on psychological aspects of headache disorders by establishing and maintaining a network of psychologists, neurologists, and other disciplines (for example, promoting joint multicenter studies) interested in the biopsychosocial aspects of headache disorders.
Contribute to the development of evidence-based guidelines regarding psychological assessment and interventions, as well as conduct of psychological studies and clinical trials, in the headache field.
Support the education and training of psychological and mental healthcare professionals on psychological assessment, counseling, and treatment of persons with headaches (for example by organizing workshops and webinars that teach basic and advanced techniques of psychological interventions).
Improve patient empowerment and education through dissemination of evidence-based psychological and behavioral information to improve the management of headache disorders (e.g., create easily understandable information materials such as brochures, infographics, and short video clips on the psychological mechanisms of headaches, self-management strategies, and available treatment options).
Improve and evaluate psychological care services (e.g., by defining quality indicators such as therapy adherence, headache-associated disability, patient reported outcome measures, patient satisfaction, and establishment of a registration or monitoring system)

The integration of psychological perspectives is important for advancing our understanding of headache disorders and enhancing patient care. The Psychology SIG will aim to foster international collaboration among researchers and clinicians in this specialized area, ultimately contributing to improved outcomes for individuals affected by headache conditions.